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 Physics at Virginia

Transferring into the Major

Many successful physics majors enter UVA as transfer students. This page recommends courses to take in preparation for transferring into the program. However, it is possible to complete the major without taking all of these courses, with a little extra effort and planning. We encourage you to contact the Physics DUP to discuss your individual situation and options.
 
The recommendations below include example courses from the Virginia Community College System [VCCS]. For other transfer course equivalencies, see the UVA transfer database. If your course is not in the database, it will be evaluated when you matriculate at UVA.
 

BA degree

The Physics BA program is highly flexible and can accommodate a range of backgrounds. 
 
Entering as a second year (two semesters of transfer credit):
  • Calculus 1 [VCCS MTH 263]
Entering as a third year (four semesters of transfer credit):
  • Calculus 1, and 2 [VCCS MTH 263, 264]
  • Calc-based Physics 1 with lab [VCCS PHY 241]

BS degrees

The Physics and Astronomy/Physics BS programs are more demanding and have more extensive course recommendations. Nonetheless, it is possible to make up missing classes through careful planning and/or summer work.
 
Entering as a second year (two semesters of transfer credit):
  • Calculus 1 and Calculus 2 [VCCS MTH 263, 264]
  • Calc-based Physics 1, with lab [VCCS PHY 241]
Entering as a third year (four semesters of transfer credit):
  • Calculus 1, 2 and 3 [VCCS MTH 263, 264, 265]
  • Ordinary differential equations [VCCS MTH 267]
  • Calc-based Physics 1 and 2, with labs [VCCS PHY 241 and 242]
  • Modern Physics, if available [VCCS 243]

Summer classes

The following classes are offered through Summer Session.
  • PHYS 1425/9 Physics 1 with lab
  • PHYS 2415/9 Physics 2 with lab
  • PHYS 2620 Modern Physics
  • PHYS 2720 Problem Solving in Physics
  • MATH 1310 Calculus 1
  • MATH 1320 Calculus 2
  • MATH 2310 Calculus 3

It is possible to take one or more classes during the summer before you start at UVA, which can help your progress towards a physics degree. If you would like to explore this option, contact the Physics DUP.